Frost Profiles

Band of the Hour

Jay C. Rees is professor of music and director of athletic bands at the University of Miami Frost School of Music. His responsibilities include leading the Frost Band of the Hour, the marching and pep bands of the University of Miami, at UM sporting events such as nationally televised Miami Hurricanes football and basketball games, and expanding the band’s reach and reputation throughout the region. He also conducts the Frost Symphonic Winds. Rees was previously professor of music and director of athletic bands at The University of Arizona in Tucson, where his bands released CD recordings, appeared on NBC-TV's Today Show and Fox Sports, and were named top in the country by the prestigious CBDNA. Rees’ contemporary arrangements and inventive drill design have gained national presence and he is referenced extensively in the book "Marching Bands and Drumlines: Secrets of Success from the Best of the Best.” An alumnus of the University of Miami Frost School of Music (B.M. ’84, jazz performance and music education), Jay Rees is an accomplished jazz bassist with international touring credits and still actively performs. He has a large catalog of published original music for jazz, wind ensemble, concert bands, and athletic bands, commissioned and performed by major universities and high schools nationwide. He also travels as a clinician, guest speaker, adjudicator, and conductor for band programs across the country. Rees is listed in Who's Who In America for the 21st Century as well as Who's Who Among America's Teachers. He is a member of ASCAP, The Recording Academy, and CBDNA.